A calculated line that smooths price data by averaging closing prices over a set number of periods. Common periods include 20-, 50-, and 200-day moving averages.

Related lesson

Moving Averages Explained

Understand simple and exponential moving averages, how to use them to identify trends, and common crossover strategies.

Learn Moving Average (MA) in PaperTrade Academy →

← Back to Market Glossary

Related terms

→
Simple Moving Average (SMA)
The arithmetic mean of closing prices over a specified numbe…
→
Exponential Moving Average (EMA)
A moving average that gives more weight to recent prices, ma…
→
Golden Cross
A bullish signal that occurs when a shorter-term moving aver…
→
Death Cross
A bearish signal that occurs when a shorter-term moving aver…

Explore the curriculum

Free and premium lessons on stock market basics, technical analysis, risk management, and more.

Browse all lessons →

Full glossary

Browse 205+ terms →